lied Helen "I cant say I have ever been in the
same strait myself; I am on very good terms with both Netherby and
Wilson."

"Are you?" said Gladys "which do you like best."

"Well you see Netherby is rather alarmed at me" replied Helen "since I
blew him up for attempting to touch the organ without leave; but then he
is more to be trusted than Wilson, who thinks nothing of breaking his
word, telling stories etc: Cyril has often thought of dismissing him
only he is very sharp and a good writer I belive."

"Well Helen can you suggest any plan for me" asked Gladys "I cant marry
James that is certain, but I cant go home and tell him that to his face
can I?"

"Hardly" said Helen "if I were you I should go home, and dont say a word
to Mr. Palsey, and write at once to your parents, telling them all you
know as soon as you get a reply write and let me know and I will
endeavour to come up and see you and we can arrange some plans; of
course get Mr. Palsey out of the way before you ask me."

"Oh yes" said Gladys "that is easily done, but mind you dont tell Mr.
Sheene you have seen me today nor dont tell him you are coming to see me
either."

"Oh no" replied Helen "I'll merely say I am going to Richmond for a
trip, he does not know you live there."

"Then that is settled" replied Gladys with a sigh of relief "what time
do you expect Mr. Sheene home?"

"Not till quite late" said Helen "you must stay to lunch."

"Thank you" said Gladys "I shall be delighted."

So Helen rang the bell and when Alice answered it she ordered dinner for
two in a most bussiness like way.

Having made a good lunch, Gladys put on her things and got ready to
start.

"You must not walk again" said Helen "I'll call a hansom," so saying she
opened the front door and gave a soft whistle. In a minute a hansom
drove up to the door and Helen helped her friend in.

"Goodbye Gladys" she said "dont forget to write and let me know directly
you here from Norfolk and I'll come up if I can."

"No, I'll be sure to write" responded Gladys "thank you so much Helen
for all your kindness," and with a wave of her hand Gladys was driven
rapidly away in the direction of Holburn Station, while Helen returned
to the sitting room, a great weight lifted from her heart.

CHAPTER 23

CYRIL'S RETURN AND THE PROMISED VISIT

It was past ten before Cyril returned home very wet and cross into the
bargin.

Helen saw at a glance what she might expect, so she car